Colymbetes fuscus
This record describes Colymbetes fuscus (species). Recorded family: Dytiscidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
A large diving beetle (15-19 mm). Although this may look a dark species, the elytra are light straw brown and on close inspection have a network of black, transverse grooves. The beetle is darker brown underneath. The head and neck shield are also brown. Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.
Wikipedia reference for Colymbetes fuscus: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colymbetes_fuscus.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Dytiscidae
- Genus
- Colymbetes
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Well vegetated lakes and ponds.
Seasonal Activity
All year round.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Colymbetes fuscus. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Coleoptera is the largest order of insects with over 400,000 described species, representing ~25% of all known animal species and ~40% of all insects. In the U.S. alone, nearly 30,000 beetle species have been identified.
Ecological role of the group
Beetles are prominent decomposers, especially in forests, breaking down dead wood and recycling nutrients. As predators, they reduce populations of pest insects. Many species are also important pollinators of flowering plants.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Beetles have major economic significance: leaf beetles (Chrysomelidae) and weevils (Curculionoidea) are among the most destructive agricultural pests globally, costing billions annually, while predatory species like ladybugs provide natural pest control.
Recorded sources for this group: Britannica, Smithsonian, NCSU Entomology. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Colymbetes fuscus (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Colymbetes fuscus
What is Colymbetes fuscus?
Colymbetes fuscus is a species in the family Dytiscidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Colymbetes fuscus found?
Habitat: Well vegetated lakes and ponds.
When is Colymbetes fuscus active?
Colymbetes fuscus: seasonal activity - All year round..